We understand that this must come as a blow to everybody, but all things must eventually come to an end.

It continues: "We have been performing as a band for 35 years, it's time to step away from the touring arena. Our music will of course live on and we will always be a part of that. We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to all the friends and family that have supported us throughout our extensive career. Our lives have been enriched by having you all as a part of the journey."

In Perth, drummer Jon Farriss had told the crowd that it was the group's last show and said he was "getting teary" at the prospect.

In late October, chief songwriter Andrew Farriss had told Billboard that the group was working on new material, with plans to make another album.

INXS formed in 1977 in Perth, Australia. They have since sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, including six UK Top 10 albums. Their biggest success came with 1987's 'Kick', which sold over 10 million albums worldwide.

The death of the band's singer Michael Hutchence in 1997 was a huge blow for the group. Jon Farriss noted the effects in the official statement announcing their split. He says: "It's been 35 years for INXS as a live touring band and unbelievably it's been 15 years since we lost Michael. We lived for each other in the trenches and we loved each other. It was the six of us against the world and then suddenly and inexplicably we were but five. We were lost right at the moment we were on top."